SDF
- Home
- Sustainable Development Fee
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) !
If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, you might come across a mandatory tourism fee that surprises many first-time visitors — the Sustainable Development Fee, or SDF. While the cost might seem high at first glance, once you understand the reason behind it, it becomes clear why it’s such a meaningful part of traveling to Bhutan.
What is the Sustainable Development Fee?
As part of Bhutan’s “high-value, low-impact” tourism policy, all international visitors are required to pay a daily fee of USD 100 per person, per night. This is not just a tourism cost — it’s a key part of Bhutan’s strategy to protect its environment and culture while managing tourism responsibly.
Why Does Bhutan Charge This Fee?
The SDF helps fund important national priorities, including:
- Environmental Conservation: Protecting Bhutan’s pristine nature and rich biodiversity.
- Free Education and Healthcare: Helping maintain Bhutan’s policy of providing free education and healthcare to all citizens.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Supporting the development of roads, services, and facilities that benefit both locals and visitors.
This approach ensures that tourism supports the country in meaningful ways, without overwhelming its small population or fragile ecosystems.
How and When to Pay
The SDF must be paid in US dollars before arriving in Bhutan. For children aged 6 to under 12, the fee is reduced to USD 50 per night, and children under 5 are exempt. This upfront payment system helps Bhutan manage tourist numbers and provide a smooth experience upon arrival.
What’s Included in Bhutan’s Minimum Daily Package (Bhutan Travel Cost)
When you travel to Bhutan, the minimum daily packageset between the traveller and the tour operator offers a worry-free, all-inclusive experience — designed to give you the best of what this extraordinary country has to offer. Here’s what’s covered in the package:
- Accommodation in comfortable 3-star hotels on a twin or double-sharing basis
- Daily meals as outlined in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- Knowledgeable English-speaking local guide throughout the journey
- All ground transportation within Bhutan, including airport pick-up and drop-off
- Admission fees to all listed museums, monuments, and cultural sites
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as per government regulations
- Bhutan visa processing fee (USD 40 per traveller)
TOUR EXCLUDES
- Airfares (both international and domestic flights)
- Charges for any services excluded from the “PRICE INCLUDES” section
- Additional fees for upgrades/single room occupancy
- Expenses for personal purchases and travel insurance
This package ensures you experience the essence of Bhutan with no hidden costs or logistical hassles.
Discounts & Special Offers
Bhutan encourages family travel, and there are generous discounts for children:
- Children under 5 years old travel free of charge, with only a small visa fee of USD 40 applicable. No SDF is required — making Bhutan a fantastic option for families with young kids.
- Children aged 5 to 12 enjoy a 50% discount on the minimum daily package rate. In addition, the SDF is reduced to USD 50 per night for this age group — making travel more affordable while still offering the full Bhutanese experience.
- Infants below 5 years travel completely free, including exemption from the Sustainable Development Fee.
Overall, Bhutan’s minimum daily package is designed to offer not just convenience but also deep cultural immersion. With meals, guides, experiences, and sustainability fees all taken care of, travellers can focus on soaking in the beauty and peace of this magical Himalayan kingdom — with added savings for families.